St Mary’s Cathedral, Port Moresby: The Archdiocese of Port Moresby officially opened the Jubilee Year on Saturday, January 25, 2025, with a grand Eucharistic celebration at St. Mary’s Cathedral. The theme for this year, ‘Pilgrims of Hope: Journeying from Darkness to Light’, set the tone for a deeply spiritual event that brought together parishioners from all deaneries within the Archdiocese.
(Sr Ancy John Chirayath SCSA presenting a candle to His Eminence John Cardinal Ribat MSC during the opening mass for the Jubilee Year)
The Mass was presided over by His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat, MSC, alongside Chargé d’affaires of the Nunciature Monsignor Federico Boni and priests from various parishes. Hundreds of faithful, including religious sisters, brothers, catechists, and lay people, filled the cathedral, reflecting the vibrant and united spirit of the Catholic community.
In his homily, Cardinal Ribat encouraged the faithful to use the Jubilee Year as an opportunity for spiritual renewal and deeper conversion. Reflecting on the Gospel reading from the Book of Mark, he reminded everyone of the words, “For whoever believes shall be saved; those who do not will be condemned”. Calling faithfuls to reflect on their lives and seek a closer relationship with God, just as St. Paul underwent a profound conversion in his journey of faith.
The Cardinal stressed the importance of participating in parish and diocesan activities planned for the Jubilee Year, urging everyone to embrace the opportunities for prayer, reflection, and service. He also encouraged the congregation to pray for Pope Francis, who has invited Catholics worldwide to celebrate this special year of grace and renewal.
As part of the Jubilee Year celebrations, Cardinal Ribat announced that three churches within the Archdiocese have been designated as Jubilee Churches: St. Mary’s Cathedral, Holy Trinity Boregaina Parish, and The Shrine of Mary Help of Christians. These sacred sites will serve as destinations for pilgrimage, offering the faithful opportunities for special prayers.
The Mass concluded with a symbolic ceremony in which Cardinal Ribat presented candles to each parish. These candles, to be lit during prayer times throughout the Jubilee Year, symbolising the Church’s collective journey from darkness to light and the hope that unites all believers. The presentation of candles was met with great reverence, as parishioners accepted them as a commitment to uphold the spiritual significance of the Jubilee.
The atmosphere during the celebration was filled with joy and a renewed sense of purpose as the faithful left the cathedral, ready to embark on the spiritual journey of the Jubilee Year. The Archdiocese has lined up various programs and activities to guide parishioners in their journey of faith, ensuring that the theme of hope and light resonates throughout the year.
The opening of the Jubilee Year marked not only a spiritual milestone but also an opportunity for Catholics in Port Moresby to strengthen their faith, deepen their relationships with one another, and embrace their shared mission of being pilgrims of hope. The celebration served as a reminder that through unity and faith, the Church can continue to journey forward as a beacon of light in the world.
The Closing Mass of the Jubilee year as per His Eminence will be on the 6th of January, 2026.
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